The recent Cape Town water crisis certainly had an impact on the property market and lifestyles in the province, and if you are looking at property for sale in Knysna then there are some lessons that you should take from the disaster.

Tensions have eased in recent months, with dam levels moving past 50% and ensuring that water security is in place for at least a two year period based on the current usage. However, even though the dreaded Day Zero proved to be little more than a threat this time around, residents have picked up some good habits to ensure that this is not a scare that is repeated.

When looking at property, or even renovating yours, it is a good idea to discuss water systems now. A lot of residents went the extra mile to assist in saving water, and many installed grey water systems, boreholes and rain water collection tanks on their properties.

This is a smart way to ensure that you can manage daily water needs around the house without being as dependent on government supply, but it is also a benefit when looking to sell your property and can actually make an impact on the price.

The property market did suffer during the water crisis, with a lack of stock and holiday rentals not being as active as they were in years past. Despite the recent good news of dam levels being on the rise, it takes a while for that to do the rounds before regular visitors start to return.

However, taking a smart approach to water usage even when it is not a concern will ensure that these issues are not repeated and allow future generations to continue setting up the required, sustainable systems to ensure water security for the long-term.